Save Article

Italy Seen Dissolving Parliament, Holding Elections by Mid-April

Updated Feb. 6, 2008 12:01 a.m. ET

Italy's president is expected to dissolve Parliament today, as the country appears headed toward a general election by mid-April following failed efforts to form an interim government. President Giorgio Napolitano met yesterday with the speakers of the two legislative chambers, a formality required before Parliament can be dissolved. Elections then would have to be held within 70 days. A call for early elections would be a victory for Silvio Berlusconi, the conservative leader who has repeatedly demanded a return to the polls.